Vittoria Zaffiro Pro

My last training tires were a high thread count racing tire, so they wore down pretty good after two seasons and a couple thousand Km's. I have made this mistake in the past, but I vow not to get drawn into the sexiness of road cycling again. I train for Triathlon, sometimes with aero bars and sometimes without, but always with the endurance of TT in the back of my mind.

This year I opted for training tires, it says so right on the box. Lower tread count, TPI=60, and a harder casing for resisting road abrasions. The deep tread fades on the shoulders, and is good for fast cornering and water dispersion, and it has a foldable bead.

The tire comes in five flavours. I went with vanilla, because white is the new black.

PRICE: $45 CDN

...because the TdF begins tomorrow

More Core workout exercises

MEC Quarter Knickers

Not many years ago, I was mocked openly for wearing knickers about town. Gladly, attitudes have come around and they are more widely available. This spring I dished out for these MEC Quarter knickers and I'm glad I did. This is my sixth pair of long shorts and these might be my fav. They are a riding short pure and simple, with articulated knees and roomy crotch. Whisper light and stretchy with a two position top button for letting it out a bit. The rear waist features additional webbing for a U-lock. The front slash pockets are zippered, but mysteriously missing are the mid-thigh pockets. Great short, so it may be too late in the season to find any more.

PRICE $65 CDN

Sugoi RSR Short

I would have to say these are my running shorts. Not because I adore them, but because they are versatile with slash pockets in back and one inside. Of course running is not something to do with a pocketful of change, but occasionally there is something small that needs to come with. They're available in three colours, blue, black and grey. They are cut long and loose in the leg for the longer tan line and they have a mesh insert. The liner does ride up a bit, but nothing's perfect.

PRICE $45 CDN

Exclusive Bike Club

It's a club I have never had any interest in, but my invitation came last week and I was powerless to resist.

I am the guy who snickered at bowed bike trays, caved in car roofs, and duct taped ski boxes.

But I can't do that anymore, 'cause I'm a new member of this group of gear crushers.

Make no mistake, I am embarrassed about it, emabarrassed to the core.

I've been throwing things on my Thule systems for nearly 20 years, and have never even had a close call.

No longer.

Now I can only snear at repeat offenders and hope I never join that club.

Women's bikes

None of the hundreds of bikes in the newly renovated space at Revolution Cycle was built for me.

That’s because Revolution partnered with bike builder Specialized Canada to create the world’s first women’s concept store. Almost half their space is dedicated to women riders, which reflects the consumer base, says manager Ben Fedoruk.

Most have researched on the Internet or in magazines before they come in for a test ride, he says — and they know what they need.

“Girls aren’t the same. When they get on a bike that’s not built for them, they’re not happy; they’re not comfortable.

“This is women designing bikes for women.”

These are not just unisex frames painted in pretty colours. They’re designed from the wheels up with input from riders like Darcy Turenne. The Norco Bikes team rider was in Edmonton recently to sign autographs at United Cycle and show off the Vixa, the latest freeride unit she helped design.

A native of Comox, B.C., and former member of the national downhill mountain bike team, Turenne, 26, also hosted the television program The Ride Guide on the Outdoor Life Network. As an ambassador for Norco Bikes, she now spends almost 300 days a year on the road and in the saddle, so bike fit is really important.

“I wanted a bike that would suit my riding style. I basically just told them (Norco) what I wanted to use it for and what I wanted it to feel like, and the engineers came up with a mock draft of the geometry.”

According to Turenne, the Vixa has a shorter cockpit, with less reach from the seat to the handlebars, so it’s more comfortable. It’s also shorter in height and lighter than a unisex model, so it’s more nimble.

This is an exciting time for female cyclists, Turenne says. They’re attracting more media attention and corporate sponsorships, and all of the big bike companies are introducing women-specific lines.

“I think the support women are getting in the cycling industry is definitely attracting more female cyclists because there is product out there for them; they don’t feel excluded.

“Girls like to ride with other girls; it’s less intimidating. And having that product out there for us to use is really great, really good for the sport.”

Back at Revolution Cycle, Fedoruk says he’s seeing a lot of women who want to upgrade their wheels to more expensive models.

“They start out with maybe an $800 bike, but within two years, all of a sudden they’re bike junkies, and they read magazines all the time and they’re buying $4,000 bikes.”

Sable googles

Swimming is has many benefits we all know about, but it's cheap to boot.

Just some trunks, maybe a cap and googles. So why would I spend triple the amount of most googles for a pair of Sables. Mostly because they claim to be anti-fog and great fitting.

Well....so much for that sales pitch. On the third day, I wore these in a lake swim tri and although they weren't rinsed until I crossed the line, the googles were pretty much done.

The salesperson, and the included instructions are adamant about handling the lenses on either side to maintain the integrity of the coating. I still have these googles, use them occasionally, but they are on par with much less expensive earwear. The fit is just ok, and their claim about distortion elimination is not really noticeable. All said and done they are just average and definitely not worth the extra money

PRICE: $50 CDN

Crank and File

I am producing a summer bike series for the Edmonton Journal on bike culture in this city.
The title above links you there but here is a sampling video on single speeds.

Rapha Pocket T

This is a high performance sleeper of a T-shirt. At first glance it looks like a overpriced T with an afterthought of a pocket slapped on the back quarter. But slip it on, cruise to the cafe and you'll be convinced this is no ordinary cotton garb. Because it's a blend it wicks, and stretches and looks casual but functions at a high level. I have a medium and it's form fitting, but the give and cut won't let it ride up in the rear when you're in the saddle. It's not race-day, but it's ride ready for casual pedaling or summer cruising.
True to Rapha attention to detail the pocket contains text of cycling lore.
PRICE about $85 CDN.

Mark Sissons' sprint work-out

Open water Tri Training

Sugoi Resistor Toe Cover

It's been a cool spring so far, and I all my riding shoes are covered with booties. But, in a race situation
booties can be cumbersome in transition, so toe covers to the rescue.
I used them recently in a duathlon, and they didn't save my life, but my toots were sure pleased I chose them.
The wind swirled around on the 20km ride and I heard afterwards people complaining of cold or numb feet for the second run.
I was unaffected by the chill as the polyurethane coated stretch fleece did it's job.
The concept and execution of the toe cover is simple, easy on and off, and held in place by the cleat on the sole.

PRICE: ABOUT $20 CDN

I am Slackjaw'd

Dueyfit Abs #2

The man, the legend Duey Hume takes you through his Abs workout part 2.

BILLABONG All Day Boardshorts

Greg Southam photo
Shorts so light, I forgot I had them on. That's what happened with these shorts on their trial run in Waikoloa. They fit unlike other boardshorts in my drawer because of their four-way stretch. They have unbelievable fit and comfort, they repel water like a ducks' back but still have all the regular features I expect in a water garment. Velcro fly, tie top drawstring, key lanyard and velcro single pocket.
I was also drawn to the solid vibrant colours of this line, because I've lived through the '80's I don't need to do it again.

PRICE $45-55

SUP in the mall

I was happy to be among the few to demo some Naish, Starboard and C4 waterman boards at the big bad mall last Sunday.
However, I was not lucky enough to ride the waves at the end of the session. Can't have it all Mom used to say.
My collegue Greg Southam shot this video with his Canon 5D MK11 and his Aquapac camera case.
Pardon the advertising.

Assos legRubi

Spring is here, but I don't always have the luxury of riding in the warmest part of the day. I ride when I can, and sometimes I need protection from the cold and the Assos leg warmers are my choice for keeping my gams toasty.
First of all they are pure luxury, fleece lined and beautifully crafted with articulated knees and a grippy tape seam at the top. Discreet reflective tabs are sewn into the seam along the calf and even the packaging is a keepsake. The wind block makes them suitable for cooler days, and they can be easily stowed in a back pocket if the mercury rises.
A bit pricey, but Assos is worth the extra loot for the accessories that will last a long time.

PRICE $80 CDN

Duey's ab series featured here!

Dakine Boot Locker

Although the ski season is far from over in the high alpine, down here the tulips are poking through. So the Dakine Boot Locker is the last ski related review for the winter. The design is not new, wet boots below, dry stuff on top, but Dakine has a nearly perfected the boot bag. Roomy enough for both of my kids boots and two helmets and all their kit.
I say nearly because the small stuff gets lost. A small pocket for keys, iPod, or glasses would have have been a homerun. Instead the bag is a standing triple. As I mentioned the bag is roomy for gear (69L), yet managable on my shoulder with the strap. The interior is lined top and bottom with a tarp liner which someone said reminded them of a pizza delivery box.
I have gone a long time just carrying my boots over my shoulder and somehow managing all my junk, because I had never seen a good solution, until now. In fact I bought two.

PRICE $60 CDN

Custom Board Shorts

I haven't tried these shorts yet, but they are so fun I had to mention them.
We have however tried the yoga mats from this company, and as a result of their professionalism I had no problem spreading the good word on thier behalf. They have over 230 designs already in the vault, but they will do custom orders too.

PRICE - $99 USD

Trim them nails

Anyone who knows me, jokes about how I wail on and on about this important piece of info.
Apparently I am not the only one. This is from the Drymax sock site.

BOGS classic high boots

Sure these boots are outside of the scope of this blog, however, when something good comes along, it warrants a mention.
First of all they are targetted to the agricultural sector, for mucking stalls and feeding the livestock. But they are a true three season boot and for me that really works. Rated to -30 C, they live up to that number as long as I'm not standing around. And for the spring they are waterproof and the knee high uppers are stretch neoprene.
Traction is sure in the snow and mud with the lugs, and in true welly tradition they feature a ramp on the heal for easy off function.
I would recommend buying these boots a bit small, as they pack out.
They only come in full sizes.
Price $90 CDN

Arcteryx Stinger bib pants

Ocasssionally I encounter gear,like these Stingers, that I almost feel guilty owning. These pants are so good they deserve to be in Chamonix, or the Chugach where they can serve their owner in epic conditions. Instead they are on a ski patroller on a little bump on the prairie. Sure they are overkill for what I have been using them for so far but occasionally I get to the Rockies and really rip. Just for those days I have the Stinger pants. They feature four pockets, and double ended zips for venting, bomber inner boot plates, snow cuffs and of course a ballistic Gore shell. There is ample room in the knee and the tush for the tele stance. These pants are really the pinnacle and sometimes I feel guilty, but sometimes I know I deserve the best. Stinger bibs are just that.
PRICE - $500.00 CDN (yea....ouch)
MADE IN CANADA

Episode 11 - The Season Dr. Scott Petett

The Season Episode 11 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo.

Finis Freestyle Snokel

Although my swim coach would never allow me to use this training device, I find it really useful.
It is made specifically for the freestyle stroke and forces me to keep my head down. This had been an issue with my ability before the snokel and now if my head bobs up, I get a mouthful. I think it also enables me to relax more in the water, so I can focus on body position and stroke dynamics.
Although there must be a reason, I wish there was a purge valve to expel liquids, but after some use it's become comforable.
I am not a great swimmer and probably will never be one, but I'll take every advantage I can get, and $40 isn't outrageous to help me with my swim stroke. It's also cheaper than my coach.
Nose plugs are recomended.

Sugoi Braveheart Tuke

As far as endurace hats go, this might the one. The tuke is a fleece lined fino-therm lightweight layer with a generous cut. It's long enough to cover the ears and keep the ear-buds in place, but can be folded over like a beanie when the temperature rises.
This tuke is also great for riding, although not considered windproof, it fits under the helmet without bulk and keeps the noggin warm. Topping it all off, it looks good, so once it's on, it stays there.

PRICE $30 CDN. in 3 colours

Arcteryx Paddler, Paul Kuthe

The Season Episode 8 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo.

Gear Hound Rider

Nice ride!

Bridging the Gap Vol.1 from Joseph Lobato on Vimeo.

Adidas Evil Eyes

Typically I avoid 'the hype'. Movies, music, gear, whatever. I like to find things that work for me on my own terms without an advertiser telling me what I need.
Last summer just before a long group ride, a man approached and opened with something like, "Oh I see you bought the hype." He was pointing to my Cervelo Soloist, and his comments still reverberate with me. For the record, I bought that bike for many reasons that still make sense to me, and the advertising was not among them.
So how does that relate to the Evil Eyes? Recently two guys I ride with were donning these glasses. They both raved about how they had interchangable lenses, tilting arms, making it easier to see while riding in the drops, removable arms with a headband.
The Adidas Evil Eyes are outstanding glasses, they fog slighly, but for the most part they stay clear. Mine came with two sets of lenses, grey with a mirrored finish and an amber. I ride, and ski with both. Another really cool feature of these shades is the foam band lining the top of the frame which keeps them off your forehead, and collects perspiration. The nose piece is also interchangable to accomodate all beaks and the ribber grooved arms keep the glassed firmly in place.
These are my training and racing glasses and they get alot of use, and the lense coating is still keeping them clear.
Made in Austria
PRICE $250 CDN

Drymax Maximum Protection Run Mini Crew

I'm really excited to give these Drymax socks a tri, I mean try. My feet have kind of held me back from more running events as they tend to blister. Always in the same place, no matter what intervention I try. My last half marathon was run with duct tape. Lame I know, but I was deperate. I really have high hopes for these socks which claim to be 25 times dryer than regular ones. I will update when I know for myself.
By the way the socks are coming from http://www.coolfitwear.com, which offers free shipping to Canada! Nice.

Sugoi Raglan L/S jersey

It's almost easier to describe what this jersey isn't as opposed to what it is. It's not flashy or techy, nor hot off the euro runway.
However it is a garment at the top of the pile and so it's my go-to winter endurance sweater. It's a workhorse and it hasen't let me down when I ride, ski or run. It has elastic cuffs and waist and three generous pockets out back, and the only knock against it is the lack of wind block. But really that's minor because it's hard to pry this jacket off my shoulders. I also am pleased with the longer cut in the frontside waist that doesn't ride up past my navel when I ski or run. This is noticable on some of my other and more expensive jackets.
At this point if you pass a someone on the trail like the guy above with that jersey, it's probably me.

PRICE
ABOUT $150 CDN

Seasons TV episode 4

The Season Episode 4 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo.

Olympic volunteer jackets

The Vancouver Olympic workforce uniform was designed by Hudson’s Bay Company design team, The bright blue is inspired by the scenery of the Sea to Sky region linking Whistler and Vancouver.
The smart design permits the uniforms to be used for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Snaps and velcro will allow the Olympic ring to be swapped for the Paralympic emblem.
Now you know.

Five gear no-no's when nordic skiing

This past weekend was the Canadian Birkebeiner ski festival. http://www.canadianbirkie.com/ Five race distances attracted about 1500 skiers of all abilites.
I was in the 31km event, and an exciting part of the day was eavesdropping on skiers talk about their choice of clothing before the race. "Oh how many layers are you wearing?, and ten minutes before the gun, "I'm not sure what to put on."
There were some items of clothing I saw in the barn before the race that still baffle me.
So I've compiled a list, and remember most folks were out in minus 8 degree celsius weather for 3-6 hours.
1. cotton, head to toe sweatpant matterial. (It's not the '70's anymore)
2. leather, no not chaps just 30 year old mittens.
3. shorts, yup, shorts????
4. treated cotton, as in welding pants and matching coat.
5.down. great for apres ski, but lousy on the trail.

I looked high and low for denim, but I came up emty this year, the only thing worse than dungarees for skiing is lulu lemon flair pants. Give your head a shake ladies.

I wish sometimes I could ski with a camera to capture the insanity, but nordic skiing is hard enough.

LaSportiva Crosslite trail running shoes

I don't consider myself a shopper, more of a buyer. In other words, I thoroughly research my purchases before I pull the trigger.
These shoes on the other hand were not the shoes I had intended to run on. I was set on a pair of Salomons, but the fit and feel of the Sportivas turned me around.
Aside from the ridiculous light weight of these shoes,(311g) they have serious lugs for traction. More than I will need on my runs along the North Saskatchewan river, but I figured they would be great for winter too.
They exceed my expectations for grip in the snow and, as I never run in icy conditions, they negate the need for anything else for winter running footwear. In fact the lugs are a bit dangerous decending wooden stairs, as they tend to catch on the leading edge and propel me forward.
I am also a big fan of the screeguard covering most of the lacing system. This is really smart as even small debris can ruin a good run. The uppers are mostly mesh for cooling an even feature reflective surfaces on the side.
Although they are not marketed as a forefoot shoe, the lack of heel cushioning and flexible midsole makes these a perfect winter or trail shoe for someone who runs on Newtons in the summer.

PRICE: About $100 CDN

The Season

The amazing Canadian outdoor clothier Arcteryx, has funded a 22 episode series documenting five of their sponsored atheletes.
It worth a look. I combines a few of my loves: being outside, beautiful cinematography and the Pacific Northwest.

Rapha Arm Warmers

As with my leg warmers, see below, I have tried numerous pairs of arm warmers over the years with mixed results.
Either they are too loose at the top or too tight at the bottom. But the Rapha Arm Warmers are Goldielocks.
They're lined with fleece and they use Italian Roubaix fabric that feels almost like 2mm neoprene. They are a tight fill all over and have a tab on the top to help with pulling them on. Although more pricey than other garments, these are the gold standard and the sexy Euro attention to detail are a must have for any gear junkie.
They come in only two colours, black and white and the reverse.

PRICE
about $60

Vibram Fivefingers KSO

A few years ago a friend of mine gave up his dream of developing a shoe that fit like a glove.
He discovered the Vibram fivefingers and quickly became their biggest fan.
Over time I saw the need for such a shoe, and jumped on the wagon.
Sure they look kinda odd, fit wierd, but get past that and you have a shoe for everything.
Honestly I have worn this shoe in all conditions, and have tried it in most sport applications where a binding
isn't needed. (Injinji even makes socks to fit the Fivefingers.) http://www.injinji.com/
I wore them a few days ago in the surf, thus the white wax on the toes, and I forgot i was wearing them within a few minutes in the water.
They saved my toes and soles on the sharp coral and lava and gripped the board tight.
The KSO(keep stuff out) is a tight fit around the circumfrence of the ankle and shielded me from the sand while running on the beach.
On land and water the fivefingers go with me everywhere.
Their line-up is expanding to leather uppers so check them out.

*Note* I would recomend buying the shoes a bit small if you can do it. They only come in full sizes and they expand with use, especially in the water.


PRICE:
about $80